This week, amidst the excitement surrounding the launch of Android 15 and the latest Pixel feature drop, Google is reportedly planning to introduce a range of privacy-centric enhancements to its messaging platform, Google Messages.
An APK teardown conducted by Assemble Debug has unveiled a variety of new profile features that could soon offer users improved control over their visibility and privacy.
While these features are not yet active, the teardown revealed hidden flags that allow users to modify their profile settings. Users could potentially hide their profile pictures and choose to display either their full name or a shortened version.
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The aim is to give users the flexibility to determine who can see their information, with options to share their profile with everyone, just saved contacts, or nobody at all.
Privacy in messaging
As Google Messages gains traction, particularly with Apple’s recent adoption of RCS messaging and the migration of various companies toward Google’s platform, the need for enhanced privacy options becomes critical. These improvements are essential to prevent accidental exposure of personal information, particularly through public profiles.
Earlier this year, a “Profile Discovery” feature was introduced, allowing users to publicly display their profile information, which could facilitate identification by those receiving messages from unknown numbers. However, concerns arise about the potential for unintentional identity exposure if users are unaware of how their information is shared.
While Google has yet to announce a timeline for the rollout of these privacy features, the proactive approach indicates the company’s commitment to user privacy as Google Messages evolves. Enthusiasts and users alike are hopeful that these enhancements will be made available to the public in the near future.
